Course Description
The diversity of issues that natural forest managers in the tropics need to consider is rapidly expanding, but strong ecological and silvicultural roots are needed to keep it grounded. This course represents an attempt to strengthen these roots in such a way that those entrusted in the management of natural forests, particularly in the tropics, can more effectively ply their trade. If properly managed, tropical forests can contribute a great deal towards improving social welfare while at the same time protecting biodiversity and maintaining the ecosystem services upon which we all depend. The more we understand about how tropical forests function, the more likely it will be that our management methods will help us to approach the elusive goal of sustainability.
Target Audience
The target audience for this course is tropical foresters in the broadest sense of this designation. It is for those who want to learn more about the impacts (intended and otherwise) of silvicultural treatments and other interventions.
Course Authors
Dr. Francis E. “Jack” Putz, Department of Biology, University of Florida, US
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